Runyon Preserve
Location
Runyon Preserve is located on Morgan Street, east of Hamilton Street, in Lockport.
Hours
8 a.m.-Sunset
Phone
815-727-8700
Runyon Preserve in Lockport offers a quiet natural area centered around woodland and creek habitat, with a history rooted in early recreation and community use. At 21 acres, its small size makes it a simple place to enjoy a short visit close to home.
Planning your visit
Runyon Preserve is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year except Christmas.
Exploring the preserve
Runyon Preserve has a parking lot and small non-rentable shelter. Visitors can enjoy informal exploration and nature observation.
Flora and fauna
The preserve protects forest habitat and a portion of Fiddyment Creek. Wildlife found at the preserve includes species such as the western chorus frog.
Preserve history
Runyon Preserve was acquired between 1934 and 2004 and is part of the Fiddyment Creek preservation system, which protects nearly 300 acres.
Before acquisition, the site was known as Legion Park and was owned by the American Legion. The preserve is named for Armstead Runyon, a local settler and early advocate of the Illinois and Michigan Canal.
Upcoming events
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Fun & Food Trucks
June 12, 2026 | 5:00 P.M TO 8:00 P.M
Join us for an evening of live music, good eats and great company at Whalon Lake.
Water Play at Whalon Lake
June 12, 2026 | 5:00 P.M TO 8:00 P.M
Immerse yourself in a mini play wetland and splash and explore with toy frogs and fish while learning about wetlands.
Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing
June 13, 2026 | 8:00 A.M TO 12:00 P.M
See the dazzling spectacle of nesting herons, egrets and cormorants at our weekly bird viewings at Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve.
Latest headlines
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What you need to know about the lone star tick
June 12, 2026 | Nature and wildlife
Lone star ticks are grabbing headlines because they can cause people to develop an allergy to red meat. Learn how to identify them and how to prevent tick bites.
Vehicle access to be restricted at Lockport Prairie to protect at-risk wildlife
June 12, 2026 | Preserves and trails
The move comes as a result of data showing increased turtle deaths on Division Street during nesting season.
One small gosling's rescue highlights a big problem in the preserves
June 12, 2026 | Nature and wildlife
A gosling tangled in fishing line got a second chance thanks to wildlife rescue volunteers. The rescue highlights the dangers discarded fishing line poses to wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
There are many opportunities to volunteer with us. Visit the volunteer information page for more information.
Call 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency safety concerns should be directed to the Laraway Communications Center dispatch at 815-727-6191 (option 9) to have a Forest Preserve District officer dispatched. Non-emergency and past concerns can also be reported to the District's police department by calling 815-727-8700 or through the online form.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions: Concealed Carry page for information about firearms in the District's forest preserves and visitor centers.